Your Views: Respect our president, but also demand more of him

READ MORE

To send a letter to the editor, click here for a form and letters policy or send to letters@gainesvilletimes.com. Please include your full name, hometown and a contact number for confirmation.

A topic in all aspects of the media: Do we respect the office of the president?

As we start our thinking, we must remember the office is filled by one of our ranks, a mere human being.

Another aspect for thought: How many times have you heard “I feel that I am not voting for the best, but rather, the lesser of two evils”?

And what platform does the lesser of two evils bring to the voters? A series of promises. Those promises are usually directed to the opposite stand of the opponent. Mix in a little character assassination and some propaganda about the opponent’s stands on issues. The net result is the promises are vacant in their context.

Ultimately, the promises are replaced by political power moves strictly to gain clout. Invariably, these moves sidestep our constitution or even violate the constitution, at the expense of our rights.

The office of the president: What do we expect? Leadership for the betterment of our nation and the protection of it. At worst, we look for status quo; if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

Change is, however, inevitable, but it should be of the people, by the people and for the people.

In good faith, we extend the trust for our nation to that office. We do have the right to expect a viable return on our investment. If the person in that office does not conduct actions directed toward the popular vote, respect for that person will not be forthcoming. And if respect for the person is lacking, so will be respect for the office, for respect is not given — it must be earned.

When the amount of politics exceeds concern for public well-being, respect will go its own way. The current administration has attacked so many positions and viewpoints for reasons that are unclear. The only defense of their action seems to be “it isn’t fair” and they present an attitude that only we know what is right for you even if it is at your cost.

This is a critical time for our country. Select your leaders based on ability and experience, not because they are electable.